UK PM Keir Starmer Hosts Indian Business Leaders to Boost UK-India Economic Ties

Discussions focus on strengthening trade, investment, and strategic partnerships, building on the UK-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

London [UK], December 19: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed Indian investors and CEOs at 10 Downing Street to explore investment opportunities and enhance economic growth between the UK and India. The meeting follows Starmer’s engagement with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 Summit, where both leaders committed to advancing the UK-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The event, supported by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), saw Starmer outline his ambitious vision for UK-India collaboration across various sectors, including technology, defence, climate, health, and education.

Key Highlights from the Discussions

• Trade and Economic Growth: With UK-India trade already valued at £42 billion and supporting over 600,000 jobs, the meeting focused on leveraging the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations to further boost economic growth.
• Senior Leadership Participation: The delegation engaged with UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Secretary of State Jonathan Reynolds, and Minister of State Douglas Alexander to explore partnership opportunities.
• Indian Business Perspective: The Indian delegation, led by Bharti Enterprises Founder and Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal KBE, emphasized the importance of India-UK relations and highlighted India’s trajectory towards becoming a $5 trillion economy by 2027.

Statements from Leaders

Prime Minister Keir Starmer

“India is a vital partner for the UK, and we have immense ambition to unlock more opportunities together, building on our already strong relationship. I’m delighted to welcome India’s senior business leaders to Downing Street to focus on economic growth and innovation.”

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds

“The UK is one of the most globally connected economies in the G20 and offers unmatched opportunities for Indian businesses. We are committed to deepening trade and investment ties with India further.”

Sunil Bharti Mittal KBE, Leader of the Delegation

“The India-UK Free Trade Agreement negotiations present significant opportunities for mutual growth. This delegation comes at a pivotal moment as India is set to become a $5 trillion economy by 2027. We seek guidance on sectors ripe for better collaboration.”

Evening Reception

The day concluded with a reception hosted by the High Commission of India in London, celebrating the growing partnership between the two nations.